What Was Wrong with My Spring Compression Calculation?

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The discussion centers on a student's confusion regarding a spring compression calculation in a physics exam, where they received a low grade. The problem involves two boxes of equal mass compressing a spring and then moving apart, with one box achieving a velocity v. The student applied conservation of momentum and energy principles but suspects a calculation error due to haste. Despite the initial solution appearing correct, the student acknowledges the need for careful revision of their calculations. The conversation emphasizes the importance of thorough checking in problem-solving.
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Homework Statement


there is a problem in my final that I can't actually remember the values of the variables but I got 1 out of 4 grade in it and I was wondering what's wrong with my solution

I am just going to write the variables because I don't know the numbers:

a spring compressed equal distances by two boxes of the same mass the spring is not attached to the boxes when it is released one of the boxes moves with a velocity v calculate the total compression distance of the spring

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


by the conservation of momentum v1=-v2 and they have the same magnitude
E1=E2
.5k xT^2= .5m(v1)^2 + .5m(v2)^2= mv^2
xT=((2mv^2)/k)^.5

(v_1 ,m and k are given and the spring's mass is negligible )
 
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Well your answer looks good

you must have done some mistake in calculation
 
yes I thought so too I did it so fast I didn't revise the calculations
 

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